Faye Chubbs, who also fell victim to the scam, left a £200 deposit for a Vauxhall Corsa in 'excellent condition', advertised in Auto Trader for £489.

She later discovered the price had risen by £100 but was told the lower price would be honoured if she had proof of the original advert.

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The victim, who printed the advert before the price was increased online, went to collect the car but discovered the sale would be on a ‘spares and repairs’ basis as she had declined to buy a three-month warranty.

The first-time buyer, who felt she had no control of the Corsa when she drove home, threatened to report the matter but was told 'trading standards can’t touch us’.

Mr Elliot revealed there was an issue with the Corsa’s braking system, the steering rack was leaking, the exhaust was badly corroded and it had a badly-worn tyre.

The court was told Asif, who has paid back cash handed over by his victims, felt 'out of his depth' after taking over the management of the business from his ill step-father.

The unemployed marketing graduate, who had no previous convictions, was remorseful and is now financially reliant upon his wife, the court heard.

Asif, of Tantarra Street, Walsall, admitted two counts of selling an unworthy motor vehicle, and being a distributor who exposed or possessed for offer or agreed to supply or supplied a dangerous product.

He also pleaded guilty to six other associated counts. He was also fined £2,650.